Sacred Valley, maras y moray
Full day
Sacred Valley, maras y moray
Full day
This route offers a unique opportunity to discover the cultural and natural richness of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, exploring its historical legacy and the living traditions of its people.
We will begin in the picturesque town of Chinchero, where we will learn about the ancestral art of weaving and its deep symbolism. In a local workshop, we will observe the entire textile creation process, from material selection and natural dyes to techniques passed down through generations. We will also visit the Chinchero archaeological complex, an important agricultural and livestock center during the Tahuantinsuyo era, featuring terraces and aqueduct systems. Here, we will admire the exterior of the Church of Our Lady of Monserrat, a clear example of the fusion between Andean and Spanish cultures during the Viceroyalty.
Our journey will continue to the Maras Salt Mines, an impressive system of more than 3,000 salt ponds in use since pre-Inca times. This unique site offers the chance to learn about traditional salt extraction methods and marvel at the surreal landscape of white terraces contrasting with the mountainous surroundings.
Next, we will visit Moray, a fascinating archaeological site that served as an agricultural experimentation center. Its concentric terraces, designed to create microclimates, allowed the Incas to cultivate a wide variety of crops.
After this experience, we will enjoy a delicious traditional lunch at a local restaurant before heading to the town of Ollantaytambo. This ancient city, with its imposing fortress strategically built on a mountainside, was an important military, religious, and agricultural center. From its heights, we will have spectacular views of the only inhabited town that still retains its original Inca urban design. We will walk through its cobblestone streets and have time to explore its vibrant artisan market, perfect for purchasing unique souvenirs.
Transfer from the hotel in Cusco to accommodation in the Sacred Valley.
Guía bilingüe (español e inglés).
Tour of a traditional textile center.
Lunch at a local restaurant.
Entrance to the Ollantaytambo and Chinchero Archaeological Complex (purchase a partial or full BTC as required).